CHALLENGE: The customer had difficulty in mating the new PLEM to the existing locations of the sea-floor connections, and the pipe routing was also difficult to achieve in typical fabrication methods.
APPROACH: Working with Truston, WMD Squared reviewed the existing computer models and seafloor survey. It was determined that in order to complete this project in the shortest period of time it was easier to re-model the equipment in Solidworks along with the seafloor connection survey. The new equipment design included subsea valves with a swivel allowing the existing connections to easily mate with the new connections without creating additional stress. A 3-D model was then adjusted in several iterations to allow it to easily mate to the existing seafloor connections. WMD Squared then performed the design and 3-D CAD modelling to mate the new PLEM with the existing connections using readily available flexible flanges in conjunction with required pipe layout. There were several iterations required, which included on-site review of the equipment at the fabricator prior to installation in Japan.
IMPACT:Goal was achieved, Truston was able to complete the PLEM within the timeline required and installation went smoothly, with no welding needed in the field.